Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 3 cups milk; ¼ cup butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Soulful Flavors

I absolutely love indulging in a warm, cheesy bowl of baked mac and cheese. There’s something incredibly comforting about this dish that evokes nostalgic memories of family dinners. I’ve experimented with various cheeses and toppings to elevate this classic recipe, ensuring it's packed with flavor and texture. The creamy cheese sauce combined with perfectly cooked pasta and a crunchy topping creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. This dish is perfect for cozy nights in or whenever you crave a taste of home.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:53:35.939Z

When I first made this baked mac and cheese, I was amazed at how the combination of cheeses added depth to the flavor. I initially used just cheddar, but blending it with mozzarella created a wonderful creaminess that took this dish to the next level. My tip is to always boil the pasta until al dente so it retains a bit of firmness as it bakes.

I've found that topping the dish with breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter not only adds a satisfying crunch but also makes it visually appealing. When you pull that golden crust out of the oven, the aroma alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy cheese sauce that’s irresistibly rich
Perfectly baked with a crunchy, golden topping
Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses

Choosing the Right Cheese

The cheese selection is crucial for delivering that rich, creamy flavor profile in baked mac and cheese. Sharp cheddar offers a strong, tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the mild creaminess of mozzarella. I recommend sticking to a blend of cheeses to achieve a complex taste. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding Gruyère or fontina for additional depth, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just remember that when substituting cheese, opt for varieties that melt well to maintain the sauce's creaminess.

Keep in mind that pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents which can affect how smoothly it melts. For the best results, shred your cheese fresh at home. This ensures a silky texture in your cheese sauce and avoids any graininess that can result from processed alternatives.

Perfecting the Breadcrumb Topping

The breadcrumb topping not only adds texture but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish. For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting the breadcrumbs in a little melted butter before sprinkling them onto the mac and cheese. This step brings out a nuttier flavor and beautiful golden color when baked, creating a delectable contrast to the creamy underneath. If you're looking for a crunchier topping, you can mix in some grated Parmesan cheese or even crushed potato chips for a unique twist.

For a healthier alternative, whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko can be used. Panko breadcrumbs yield a lighter, airier topping, while whole wheat breadcrumbs provide a bit more fiber. Either way, it's important to sprinkle them evenly across the top before baking, ensuring every bite has that satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cups milk
¼ cup butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue stirring until the mixture thickens. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and both cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combine and Top

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crunchy. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the macaroni and cheese mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Baked mac and cheese is a fantastic dish to make ahead of time! You can assemble the entire recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge—just add an additional 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through evenly. This is perfect for meal prep or when you have guests arriving.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Reheating can be tricky, as mac and cheese can dry out. To prevent this, add a splash of milk before warming it up in the oven or microwave to retain that creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Baked mac and cheese is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or a crisp garden salad. The freshness of the greens complements the richness of the cheese, providing a well-rounded plate. You can also serve it as a main dish at gatherings, where it will undoubtedly be the star of the show.

For a fun twist, try using baked mac and cheese as a filling for stuffed peppers. Just scoop out the insides of halved bell peppers, fill them with the mac and cheese mixture, and bake until the peppers are tender and slightly charred. This not only elevates the presentation but also introduces additional nutrients to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe, adjusting cooking time as necessary.

→ What other cheese can I use?

You can experiment with Gouda, Brie, or even cream cheese for unique flavors.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.